H-1Bs getting 221(g) slip from visa officers after social media vetting begins: What does this mean?

With the new policy roll out, initial applicants are already experiencing delays, retention of passports, and temporary denials pending administrative review.

Earlier, mandatory social media screening primarily applied to student and exchange visitor visas categorized under F, M, and J. This modification indicates that skilled workers who are renewing or applying for H-1B visas will now face the same degree of online scrutiny.

While there is no immediate decision regarding the approval or rejection of visa appeals, candidates are now receiving a 221(g) slip. Additionally, they are also being inquired about the public status of their social media accounts, after which their visa approval status gets updated online.